How PMEL does a limited calibration - Tensiometers

S

Stanger

Sorry to post a question like this but I don't have a real firm grip on how PMEL does a limited calibration. Here is the issue we are having. We have tensiometers that have a limited cal to +/-6%, however the standard we have to reach is +/- 5 lbs. The tensiometer can read up to 400 lbs and the manufacturer specs calls out a tolerance of being able to reach +/- 4%. My question is where do they get the +/-6%, is it at a set standard on a point between 0 and 400lbs or is it through the whole range? I am trying to figure out how to get a tensiometer that can meet the requirements set for me. Thanks for any help and sorry if this is in the wrong forum.
 

dwperron

Trusted Information Resource
First, do you have more information on the tensiometers you are calibrating? Manufacturer and models?

The tensiometers I have experience with are the Pacific Scientific models. These have a 0 to 100 scale, and you generate a calibration chart for each unit. You will collect data for each size cable it will be used on, applying weights up to the maximum rating of the cable and meter. These calibration charts are then used when you are testing cables on an aircraft, comparing your meter reading to the calibration values to determine the force measured.

The Navy calibrates these and has 5% and 10% calibration tolerances that they can apply. The Air Force just generates the correction values.

"We have tensiometers that have a limited cal to +/-6%"
"manufacturer specs calls out a tolerance of being able to reach +/- 4%"
"the standard we have to reach is +/- 5 lbs"


The tolerances I have seen are % reading, not full scale.

"My question is where do they get the +/-6%" - That's why we need more information. I don't know who "they" are.
 
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